Poor Horatio, I read the News report on teachers and guns. Wow, I can see all kinds of problems with that. The way I see it, school shootings are a rare thing but if they start arming teachers in the classroom, all kinds of accidents will occur. Think about what could happen if, say a frail woman teacher wore a gun in the classroom and some crazy adolescent boy decides he can't sneak a gun past security but he can overtake his teacher, get the gun and go on a shooting spree? Or, how many times might a gun get into the hands of kids if the teacher is careless? I think a better idea would be to teach kids and teachers how to react to such circumstances and maybe having paid security guards who are armed in the classroom, but not teachers. I understand the desire of the teachers to do anything they can to protect the student but I am afraid arming teachers in the class room might do the opposite. I can't help but think about some of the far-out, really bad teachers that I had when I was a kid, and I definitely would NOT have felt more secure if they had been armed. ha I think we all need to be more familiar and educated about what we should do in violent situations because if not, most people will freeze up and become a victim. I think it's time to teach the good citizens of our country how to fight back. I remember watching a special once on TV about kids who had been abducted by strangers but had fought back and lived. It really made an impression on me because I just figured that once an adult decides to abduct a child, there was nothing the child could do to fight back, but I was wrong. I remember how one little girl was abducted and forced into a car by a pedophile and as he was trying to flee the scene with her, she got down into the floorboard and proceeded to press his foot down on the accelerator while screaming, and fighting him all the way. Well, there was no way he could drive and he ended up crashing the car into a tree. The child only had minor injuries and the abductor fled the scene alone. Pretty smart..there were other such stories about how kids and adults made it so hard for their abductors that they got away. I think we have to have the mindset to fight back sometimes.

Better head off to bed...sleepy tonight.

BooOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46482:
Mornin' Y'all! Guess I'm in charge of breakfast this Wednesday morning,huh? We haven't had Krispy Kremes in awhile,so I'm leaving a few boxes on the Porch along with a pot of coffee-enjoy!
Hey Fungirl my friend!! So good to have you back with us! Tell Rosa that Laci says "hey"!
Y'all,I heard from Asa- he says he is slowly improving,but not as quickly as he hopes. He also said he'd see us on the Porch soon. I think we'd better start planning the "Welcome Back to the Porch" celebration-homemaker,will you make a batch of meatballs?
Me-They,if you stop by my rock on your way to the lock up,I'd be happy to give you one of my blankies!
Y'all have a good day!
*****SMILES*****
possum under a rock

"Goober-it's an American name."

October 18, 2006 - Msg 46483:
Morning folks, have not been by in a few days, busy as usual. hope all is well, looks like a lot of sitting and chatting going on. looks like SPOT has been taking care of the meals just fine.
just wanted to stop by and see everyone. Gotta get to work, will try to stop later. Prayers to all. Big MaudeOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46484:
For those of you who need a reason to smile, click here.

from Poor HoratioOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46485:
You know - Asa always did enjoy my cooking - meatballs it is.
I think the church social will be this weekend. How about Saturday night, that is if I can find my earrings! Asa borrowed them the last time and I don't thing he gave them back!

I know what ABA is FG, you keep it up! I am glad Kyle is doing so well. Vincinnes also has some good programs. One of my students has applied there. Kyle may want to check that out as well.

Okay, now you’ve gone and done it. I tried to avoid the soapbox, I really did. I just can’t help myself.

Teachers with guns. They’ve got to be kidding. Aside from the downside that BOO stated concerning kids getting guns from the teachers, there are several other reasons this is a bad idea. Foremost among them is that the people who shoot kids are obviously mentally unbalanced as well as criminal. It’s hard to deter crazy people (go to North Korea). No, they will still strike, but now they will go in with guns blazing instead of trying to undertake some plan or take hostages. Kids will still die.

Another important point that is frequently overlooked is that even during the very worst of periods of school violence (like we have been experiencing with the three recent incidences), this kind of violence is extremely rare. With literally hundreds of thousands of schools and nearly 100 million school children, there are bound to be things like this happening somewhere. That is not to say we shouldn’t do everything we can to prevent and stop it.

This kind of violence has always been with us. Crimes against children is not a modern problem, I’ve read enough 18th and 19th century newspapers to know that. (And yes, the sensational even happened in small, rural communities.) Teachers with guns is sort of like the doctor telling you to boil water when your wife goes into labor—it ain’t really much use but it gives you something to do and makes you feel useful. This isn’t a useful solution, in my opinion.

And, while I’m up here, I might say that the whole gun rights thing is nonsense. When the “West” was trying to clean itself up and end rampant crime, do you know what towns and counties did? They banned handguns. Yep, a lot of law-abiding people could no longer pack heat, but neither could the criminals. Yes, the laws were violated, but eventually (it took time) it worked. Where handguns are banned, crimes using guns goes down and so does the homicide rate. After all, it’s much, much easier to pull a trigger of a concealed handgun than wield a concealed baseball bat.

Boy, I bet I started a moulage there.

Just to clarify something, people who commit crimes against children—whether physical, spiritual or psychological abuse, or exploitation—are the lowest of the low. I have to constantly pray for the kind of spirit Christ wants me to have with regard to them. It’s one of hardest things for me.

(M-T)October 18, 2006 - Msg 46488:
Yep, Me-They, Jesus had some real serious things to say to those who harm "little ones". I shudder to think of what those who exploit children will face if they continue their evil practices.

Now, as far as guns go, I'm a Texan so giving up handguns would take alot (just kidding). You know how we are here, guns are very popular with cowboys. Seriously, I think it would be insane (my opinion and I welcome others) to arm teachers in the classroom. There has GOT to be a better answer that having something so dangerous to children in every classroom in America! I think if school shootings become more frequent I may consider home schooling again (and hope they don't come after me at home)...face it, nobody is completely safe anywhere, we just have to find a place of peace in our faith in God. I fully believe, as terrible as the killing of those Amish girls was, God won't just let that guy win with his terrible acts. He will take that tragedy and use it for good for the sake of those dear children and their parents. I believe he can do that, and we already see how the Amish have been such a beautiful picture of God's love and forgiveness.

I've gotta go get the kids from school and take them to get their teeth cleaned, so be back later...

BooOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46493:
Will Lord lf you are looking down here .
You can see that your child had may a mess in your houes that you give thim to stay in.
Your heart must becrying to see all the killing of your childs.
a friend that love you

October 18, 2006 - Msg 46494:
I'm guessing that the sweet comment above was written by Tom. It's just the sort of insightful, caring thing that he would say. --RomeenaOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46495:
Hey gang...at work now for 16 today tomorrow and fri...my work week 8 hr ot too....tonight its pork roast and green beans,tater salad,fried squash,corn bread and tea...ready at 6:45...and oh yea big maudes slaw...well will try to keep the lights on...SPOTOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46496:
SPOT, I have the slaw ready and a big bowl of banana pudding for dessert. thanks for keeping the lights on. see you all at suppoer Big MaudeOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46497:
Don't work too hard, Spot. I just got off of a 12 hr this morning, haven't been to bed, and have hit the wall, so to speak. I'm off to take a nap. --RomeenaOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46498:
Thanks Big Maude!.Romeena watch them walls!...you must be walking like Otis on a sat night!..:)....SPOTOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46499:
Hey, BOO and anybody interested; here's what one Texas community is doing to prepare their children in case the worst happens at school: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15253321/. What do you think? I have some reservations, but teh idea is good.

Y'all have a good one.

Me-TheyOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46500:
Hey porch....been missing y'all lately. Been so busy, and out of town last weekend. Looks like I may be confined to bed for a coupla days, so maybe I can catch up now. Hope you all are well. I'm going to read the archives.
Before I go, let me share a Mayberry moment. As some of you may remember, last weekend we had a 125th Homecoming(not 150th like I said before) at our family church at the beach.(Idelle, you asked where this was...not too far from y'all...St John's UMC in Avon, NC, on the outer banks. ) Well, wouldn't you know it, the first hymn Sunday morning was "Come to the Church in the Wildwood"....brought a tear to my eye, too, all the men singing "come, come, come" and the women singing the chorus....just beautiful.
Millie

October 18, 2006 - Msg 46501:
Prayers for you Millie...rest well....slow here at work...all lights are on!...hey M-T,Romeena you at working or sleeping?....back with some popcorn and cokes in a bit...SPOTOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46502:
Hey Boo, if your out there tonite, set the vcr...at midnight TCM is showing one of those movies I reccomended.."Mildred Pierce" with Joan Crawford, 1945....a murder mystery of sorts, but the backstory is about a mother who goes from waitress to owning a successful restaurant...sound familiar? lol
MillieOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46503:
Hey Spot! Thanks for the snack, perfect movie fare....wanna join me? I have my portable tv, perfect for porch viewing.
MilOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46504:
Oooohh...I found some Jujubees and Goobers too.
MilOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46505:
To Me-They Msg 46499, I like the ideas proposed in that article link you posted. If I was in a situation where I believed I was going to be shot, I would not stand stil and act like a good target. And believe it or not, instead of praying, I would be looking for an opportunity to take some kind of defensive action to resist or escape. It may sound harsh, but that is the way I was trained in Law Enforcement Street Survival. Prepare for the unexpected.

To Millie Msg 46500, glad to hear you will getting in some rest time. You deserve it.

Hey folks, they were selling some Chocolate Dilly Bars at the local Dairy Queen. I bought extras for anyone who wants them.

from Poor Horatio

October 18, 2006 - Msg 46506:
Hi All.
Ben busy cleaning rug .
Have not found no gum wrapper but will keep looking.
I think some people have to makeup min on the guns thing.
Frist everyone was for taking gun away because of all the shooting and little kids and know there is some people saying that teachers need guns in the classroom?
There is something not just right what this?
You saying that it is o k to have gun.
That like having a lic to a crazy made guy.

LOVE TOM.

October 18, 2006 - Msg 46507:Wow Millie, Mr Tucker would be right proud.
Hey to Spot, Maude, Homemaker and all! Prayers for Millie, Colt and all that's ailing. Boo, so sorry about the heat, I bet it's dang hot!
Anyone ever go to "Miss Crump's Quiz" on the front page, almost to the bottom of the list on the right? There are some tough ones there.
How bout: What color is Uncle Ollie's car? or
What's the posted speed on Turner's grade?
Well, have a great evening. Possum, thanks for the Krispie Kreme. All the shops closed here in AZ a few months back when the franchiser went bankrupt. It had to be mismanagement, because they were always busy.
Well, God bless,
MDCOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46508:Hey to PH and TOM,
Thanks for the poem and the Dilly BarOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46509:
That was me, MDCOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46510:
You're so right, Tom. Screwed up, huh? Poor Horatio, I really enjoyed the lunch with God link. It's cold, rainy and nasty here. Where's October's bright blue weather?
Charlotte TuckerOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46511:
To Charlotte Tucker Msg 46510, I'm glad you enjoyed the Lunch with God link (from Msg 46484).

To Tom Msg 46506, you brought up a very good point. First people wanted all guns taken away to protect their children. Now they are talking about issuing guns to teachers to protect their children.

To MDC Msg 46508, I'm glad you enjoyed the dilly bar.

from Poor HoratioOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46512:
Hey to the PORCH! Hope ya'll are doing well...haven't fell off the planet yet...been way too busy with things. Did a concert a few weeks back with the Dixie Melody Boys, last week with Mercy's Mark...done a few revivals and am working on 2 new CDs. On top of that...Mrs Goober is about 5 weeks from popping...and that sure keeps me hoppin! (I'm a poet...didn't know it!).

Goober...
YO!!!October 18, 2006 - Msg 46514:
Enjoyed the pics on your site, Goob, thanks! Hope you don't get too busy to check in from time to time. Glad the Mrs. is doing well (and the baby).

Hey Millie, enjoy the rest. Thanks for the tip about Mildred Peirce. Actually I have seen it a couple of times and love it...the problem is I am sleepy and I don't know how to set my new VCR!

Interesting report, Poor Horatio. I think it is probably a good idea for the most part but when I think about telling my own kids to do it, it seems very scary. I have always wondered, though, how things would be different if victims fought back. I remember years ago when the crazy shooter crashed his truck into a Luby's in Kileen, Texas and shot so many people while everyone just looked on. Someone should have thrown a table at the guy or something!

Well, better head to bed. Big day tomorrow.

MDC, we are supposed to get a cool front tomorrow (I hope).

BooOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46515:
Hey Goob, MDC, Charlotte,Tom...Thanks for the Dilly bar, Poor Horatio. I, too, enjoyed the link you provided, "Lunch with God", thanks for that. I also saw another video today that was inspiring...Go to YouTube, search for "Free Hugs Campaign", and watch the original video by Juan Mann...(I know many of you may have already seen or heard about this, I'm
late getting on board) What a simple thing. Like that movie, "Pay it Forward".....makes you think....hmmmm, maybe one person can change the world.
MillieOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46516:
Hey, Boo! Didn;t mean to rock on yer toes!
MilOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46517:
Sure Mil Im in there for porch TV..hey there GOOBER!...boo we are gona get a cold front friday, high only about 65..hey CT,TOM,horatio...and all...well Lost in space the movie comes on in a bit here at work...anyone seen it?....not much else on...SPOTOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46518:
oooo, that's tough, "Lost in Space" or "Mildred Pierce".....thanks, Spot.
MilOctober 18, 2006 - Msg 46519:Hello porch

Just got in from a visit with my daughter at college. Went out for supper and had some good quality time. DAD loves that! (Of course mom does too)

Well those NY Mets are hanging in there to game 7.

I've got a very busy 3 weeks coming up. So I may not get to check in as much after this weekend. Maybe I'll be able to get wireless conection some while out there on the road.

Well I'm heading for bed. You all have a good night. Prayers for all.
-REV.October 18, 2006 - Msg 46520:
I vote for "mildred Pierce" looks good to me.
SkippyOctober 19, 2006 - Msg 46521:
Have a good trip Rev!...we will say a travel prayer for you here on the porch...Mil got to watching "Ali" [will smith] but think i will swap over to lost in space at 1:45...Hey there late night Skippy...what part of the porch are you on...Im here in Georgia the southern end...SPOTOctober 19, 2006 - Msg 46522:
Hey, there, Skippy....ooh, it's a good 'n alright. I'm just rockin' and watchin', enjoying this beautiful evening on the porch.
Millie

October 19, 2006 - Msg 46523:
Hey, Spot, allow me to introduce my friend, Skippy. She's over here on the southeast end of the porch, just north of ya....about 2 miles from me, actually. Skippy, this here's Spot..."The talking dog of the porch."
Millie
ps...prayers for a safe and successful trip, Rev.

October 19, 2006 - Msg 46524:
Good evening, all. I'm up so late because I slept all afternoon, after working 12 hours last night, and well, you get the idea. As I've said before, I live in a perpetual state of jet lag. Spot understands that, I'll bet.

Gun-toting teachers in the classroom? I think not. I agree, we need some answers and the kids need protection, but that's not a good idea. No need going into all the reasons as I see them - this is a group of intelligent people and you know the reasons, probably better than I do. Bad idea.

As for teaching the kids to defend themselves, that's a good idea. Anyone who is abducting a child isn't going to take them out for ice cream and let them go, so the kid really has nothing to lose by waging war, and they might just surprise the abductor enough that they can get away. Good idea.

A plan for self-defense should exist in everyone's mind. I have always said that if anyone tries to carjack or kidnap me, they will forevermore wish they had gone to a movie that day instead. Carjack? I'll crash the car if I'm driving, or make him do it if I'm not. Lots of ways to accomplish that, just a huge commotion in the front seat would do it. He has a weapon? So what? Again, he's not planning on taking me to a picnic, so what would I have to lose? As for a direct physical attack, ladies - fight back! Most of us have enough fingernails to do some damage, and I don't mean little scratches. Try to remove an eye, if you can! A fist to the Adam's apple works wonders, even if it is just a little fist. Make a LOT of noise. At attacker doesn't want attention. Stick your finger down your throat and throw up on him if you can. Tell him you have AIDS. Use your imagination. Just don't go quietly. You have nothing to gain by doing that. He will not be taking you to more populated areas, you know, but rather will be seeking isolation, where you will have no hope of help. Don't go without a serious fight.

Actually, girls, if you'll think your way through several imagined scenarios, you'll find yourself with a new sense of confidence and security. Be aware of your surroundings when away from home, don't let anyone get too close to you, keep things locked and secured at home, don't make yourself a target. In other words, use your head!

On that happy note, I'm going to bed. My Brinks alarm is set, my four-legged alarm is snoozing on the pillow, and I'm hoping to get sleepy and get some more rest. Sugarplum says 10-4. --RomeenaOctober 21, 2006 - Msg 46525:
HI ALL
Had a nice day but tomorroe it going to be cold
tom

Barnwannabe.October 21, 2006 - Msg 46527:You are traveling through another dimension, a dimension not only of sight and sound but of mind. A journey into a wondrous land of imagination. Next stop, the Taylor's Front Porch!

October 21, 2006 - Msg 46531:
Boo: I don't know what happened, but all last night, and this morning, I couldn't get on here, and I've got a missing post!!! EERY!!! Maybe Old Man Remshaw himself has haunted our cozy front porch!!!LOL

Barnwannabe.
Barney:"It's probably just the lightin', like Andy said."October 22, 2006 - Msg 46532:
Came by to share my thoughts on somthing with you guys.

I find it a shame how with all the promotion AGAINST smoking, drugs and drinking, kid's still think it's cool to do it. It's crazy around my town how many kid's there are just living a low life. And some parents don't even care? You will see some completely good looking people letting there kids go wild like that. Lame. Not caring about school, not caring about there health. This is somthing that really bugs me, just wasted life.

What are your guys thoughts on all this? Do you have people/kids like this where you live?

_______________________________________________________________

On a more positive note, Im doing good. How about you guys? Hey to BWB, Boo, Poor Horatio, Millie, SPOT, auh2o, Tom, MDC and everyone!

Looking forward to the final season of TAGS? I sure am! December 12th!

Take care.

Deputy Warren FergusonOctober 22, 2006 - Msg 46533:
Relax, everyone. It wasn't Tbe Count, nor was it a time warp. It was just the server undergoing some renovation. I tried once more last night to get to the porch, and got a screen that explained it all.

DWF, I know what you mean. You look at some of the kids and wonder how on earth (and why) their parents will let them behave like that. Then I think back to when my own kids were teenagers, and remember that they did a few things that I wasn't particularly proud of (nor were they, later on) and I have to acknowledge that sometimes the parents just can't stop it, short of locking them up or smothering them with a pillow! However, in too many cases, what you see is the result of little or no parental guidance. Then there's the flip side. Now and then you'll see a kid who is a model of behavior, good, honest and moral, yet who has had the worst of examples for parents. Certainly parents influence and shape their children's lives, but ultimately, it comes down to how each individual answers the call within their own heart.

I don't buy the cop-out plea put forth by some criminals, all about their awful childhood. I'm sorry they were abused, but that shouldn't lead them to be abusers or to indulge in otherwise criminal behavior. They, of all people, should know how awful it is. For everyone who has it rough as a child and responds by copying the bad behavior, there are others who endure terrible abuse and turn out to be good people. If it works for one, it can work for all.

Well, that's my sermon for the day. Guess I'll get dressed now and go hear my pastor's sermon. I'm quite sure it will be better than mine, and won't be as dry as dust, either! God has blessed me with wonderful pastors, throughout my life. Basically, there have been only four, and all giants for the Lord, all of them.

Sugarplum says 10-4. --RomeenaOctober 22, 2006 - Msg 46534:
Good morning. Good to see you Warren. I think it's a good thing that you are noticing and concerned about the kids in your area. Have you ever thought about volunteering some of your time to help..maybe the Big Brother organization? I think this is a really tough culture for kids to grow up in. Lot's of broken families, parents who have to work constantly to keep gas in the car and a roof over their heads, no time for church involvement, taking God out of public schools so the kids are taught a huministic world view (nothing is absolutely right or wrong, but relative to the situation on what "feels good"). Kids have huge pressures and problems and little guidance, for the most part. Look at the teen suicide rate...it's like an epidemic. Kids need help and most adults are too busy to notice. They lack mentors and good role models...most are looking to celebrities as role models. Ok, that's my opinion.

Warren: We have a lot of that here, probably more so than you do, because this is a small, rural town, and there is nothing to do here, especially for the kids, so that's all that the kids have to do, make the wrong choices. As you all know, I'm not originally from here, and when we moved here, there was nothing to do, and there still isn't. The nearset Wal-Mart is 50 miles from here!!! So, the parents have grown up doing this sort of thing, and therefor, they see nothing wrong with leting their children participate in the under age drinking, and the drug activity, and it's just sad!!! I guess that I was lucky, because I wasn't from a small town like this, I knew better than that. But, now I sit back and watch it, and read about it in the paper, and it's terrible.

Warren, It's sad to see so many teens (and children) lead astray, it's what they see glamourized on TV: just look at those "Bratz"dolls... just awful!! It's everywhere. There are more teens though, than in my day, speaking out boldly about The Lord and trying to live a chaste life. It's so dificult for them. I have 2 teen daughters and they are split along these lines. But they both have a strong sense of right and wrong, and are doing their parents proud. Parental involvment from an early age is key. Mind you, the parents have to have had some positive parental involvement when THEY were kids. I think that's where it's all unraveled.

Off my soapbox now. Y'all have a good Sabbath!

~ Mrs. WileyBarney: "I dunno... it all happened so fast... just WHOOSH!"

October 22, 2006 - Msg 46537:
Hi All.
It a little cold.
I am not to happyben fighting what some of the family in cleveland and I did something bad to thim.
But it going to be all on thim.
LOVE TOM

October 22, 2006 - Msg 46538:
Now, Tom, I can't imagine you doing anything bad to anyone, It probably wasn't as bad as you think. As for fighting with them, don't. Just walk away and refuse to be pulled into their messes. You'll come out ahead eventually. --RomeenaOctober 22, 2006 - Msg 46539:
Good advice, Romeena. I was just about to ask for some concerning my husband's family. I am praying about a situation but have had little experience in this area. My siblings and I have always gotten along as adults and don't fight. It seems like there is always a war going on in my husband's family between the sisters and the mom, or sister and sister. They always try to draw everyone into it so they can give "their side" and get family members to agree with them. Of course I can see where both involved in the conflict have helped to contrubute to the problem but they never seem to see it that way. Bruce's 2 sisters are in an agreement and it never seems to get resolved. One of them sent an email out to all the family to meet and get to the bottom of things. I see this as a possible WW3 and don't want to get involved, but also don't want to seem like I don't care. Any advice from any of you more experienced than I??

By the way, it is 51 degrees and rainy. Can you believe it?? It was 90 here yesterday.

My family is the same way, remember the aunt that I told ya'l about? She was being evil to the family, as we thought she was dieing. Well, she's just part of the problem. My other aunt, says that my parents haven't raised me right, and that the other two aunts are witches, and she tries to get in the middle of everyone's life, so she can ruin it. And, as you said, they always want 1 or 2 to believe them, and not the other!!! I hate getting involved, just as you've said, so I just stay back. I really don't care what their thoughts are about me, and I don't care if they think I don't care, if that makes any sense!!!LOL

There is light at the end of the tunnel, though!!! I just got off the phone with the aunt that we thought was dieing, and she is fine, and now goes to church regularly. She has sense apologized, and we(my parents and I) have forgiven her. But, not the rest of them, they just keep on fighting!!!

It's sad, but all we can do is pray for them, and not get cought up in their"web"!!!

I hope that this has helped you!!!

And to TOM, I say the same thing, just pray for them, and don't get caught up in their "web".

Barnwannabe.
Barney:"I could expect that from them ignorant lay-people outside, but not from you Ange!!!"October 22, 2006 - Msg 46542:"...at the next signpost up ahead...space, the final frontier, the AUH20 Zone" ha
October 20th has gone into another dimension, behind the panel at the remshaw place, now peering out at us thru the picture on the wall! haha
Good points Mrs Wiley! I remember Boo put the Bratz doll up on top of the fridge!
We have 19 propositions on our ballot here, including the marriage amendment. All value voters must get out this election! I think we are in the middle of the teeter toter, and it can go either way. We have to get off our butts and vote!! America is at a crossroad, the whole world is!
Prayers for TOM, millie, colt and all. Have a wonderful Sabbath day in the Lord of Lords, and we will see ya tomorra!
MDCOctober 22, 2006 - Msg 46543:
Kyle asked me about drinking. Wanted to go to his friends house and try it. I said NO WAY. Told him if he felt he had to drink, his dad and I would buy him one beer. That way he could taste it and see how it made him feel and we would be there to watch over him. I think just the thought of us seeing him do that...changed his mind. fungi told him about his early experiences with dui charges and how his family has a tendancy to alcholism. I think what really got him was hearing about grown men "crying" when they were drunk. At sixteen, it is his mortal fear to cry in front of other people. Whatever words the Lord gave me, I said, and they worked. He decided he didnt need to try it just yet. I know there are those thinking "Yeah, she has herself fooled. He is out doing it when he is away from home." Not a chance. Mikes house is the one where the kids come to spend the night and play video games. The kid is hardly ever away from home and when he is, he is with in a home of people from church. People we know well. It is only thru Gods mercy that our son has turned out to be such a good kid.

I thought for a while that with the divorce and all, I had alienated my son. That we would never be close again. But I guess he just doesnt tell me the day to day stuff. When its something important that is weighing on his mind, he still knows he can come to me. I hope it will always be that way.
fun girlOctober 22, 2006 - Msg 46544:
Hey to the PORCH! Happy sabbath to all...just checking in from the COLD side of the Chicager porch...it's not nice...just not at all!

Hope everyone is doing well...keeping healthy...and getting a little rest! Prayers to all, and to all a good evening...

Goober...
YO!!!

p.s. 35 weeks today..Me and Mrs Goober have just 35 days (or so) till little goobette arrives...can't wait!October 22, 2006 - Msg 46545:
Hi All
Romeena- there why we are fighting me brother has a wife who think she can run everyone life for thim.
If you do not give in to her , she start bad thing.
Will the house that are in was going to go tome wind my grandmom pass away if me mom was a life it was her but she pass so me grand had it chang in the will but she never sig it , so now the houise go now wound want at.
But befor we heard this she think it was min, so everytime it rain and the roof hek she called and b about it and said I 'm going to called the city on it .
Will now that the is not no one she said wind it go up me brother and her can by it .
Will I did a bad thing , if it not mind I just called rhe city on it was all the problem on the house.

BWB.October 22, 2006 - Msg 46548:
Hey gang.....gosh got to read...been bust here at the dog house ...went on a 4-wheeler ride today in the North Ga Mountians....good ride!...hey boo,TOM,Rev,auh20,hm,possumro,bwb,Floyd,fg,big maude,dwf,skippy,mail and all....breakfast will be country ham and eggs your way,grits,hashbrowns,toast,grape jelly,butter,h20 and coffee...ready at 6:00 est ...better get up early!..good race today mav and md and mdc....and goober!..my falcons are 4 and 2...colts are on a roll....Go cards!...back in a bit..got to clean the honda up...SPOT the"preasure washing" dog of your porch..ruff ruffOctober 22, 2006 - Msg 46549:
Evening, all. Tom, I would suggest that you call your local Legal Aid Society. Sounds like you may need some help from them to protect your rights. Tell them everything you've told us. Don't get into any discussion with family members, and don't call the city anymore. Don't stir things up any more than you have to, just call Legal Aid.
One question -- do you still live with your step-dad? If so, it's possible that there's hope there. If your grandmother's will left the house to your mother, and she passed without a signed will, in many states the house would go to her husband and her own children in equal shares - your stepdad and you. If that's the case, he can will his share to you. This is why I say you need to call Legal Aid, now! I think I'm right about this. Anybody agree, or disagree?

Boo, being an in-law rather than a blood relative, you have a perfect "out". Just tell them you don't wish to interfere in any way in a family spat, and walk away. No opinions, no discussion, nothing. Just hang up, walk away, refuse to reply to an email, whatever the circumstances demand. You can't be blamed for something you didn't say, but anything you say or write can be twisted and used against you. If Bruce is as smart as I think he is, he'll disengage as well, and let them stew in their own juices. Harder for him, being a blood relative, but it can be done.
BWB, being a true relative, not an "outlaw", your situation is more difficult, but being a man, you can easily tell the women involved that you don't wish to get into their catfight, and just walk away. Let them rant and rave, but take the high road and remain above all that. You'll be glad you did.

I thank God every day that when my mom passed, and my dad had Alzheimer's disease, that he was so sweet and cooperative with me and my brother. Then when he passed, my brother and I were able to settle everything and even divide things up, down to the dishes, with never a discordant word. God really blessed me in those days, as He has all of my life.

Sugarplum says 10-4. --RomeenaOctober 22, 2006 - Msg 46550:
Hello porch,
I had a great weekend... My granddaughter was at my house. I love spending time with her..That is what I work all week for. We bought new clothes and a big girl booster for my car so I don't have to get hers from dad and put it in my car. We carved her pumpkin and played alot. It was great.
Now it is back to work.. at work and home. The drywallers came this weekend and now I get to paint and fix up my bedroom the way I want it.
Lots to do.
SkippyOctober 22, 2006 - Msg 46551:
That's harder for me than for Bruce, Ro. His family is used to him being tough and not getting involved in nonsense. I have been staying out of it but I let myself get pulled back in a bit and now I have a neice and nephew telling me about how hurt and lonely their mom is since her family won't speak to her (her perception of things). She is the one whose husband left her a year ago and she has been in terrible mental and emotional state. Everyone wants to help but there is only so much we can do for her. She refuses most help. Very sad. Another thing that makes it difficult is that even though I am not a blood relative, the women in the family over the years have kind of turned me into the one they look to. They see me as strong and wise and expect me to help them. In the past I have been in the role of the one who helped them through some tough times, like the care of their dad when he was an invalid, and helping out in his last days and in his death. I'm sure it feel hurtful for them for me to pull away but if that is what I need to do, that is what I will do. I will be there for them and love and pray for them without getting involved in the fighting.

BWB, that is wonderful news about your Aunt. That is what we were praying for. The Lord spared her life and is working on her heart now. Wonderful! Sorry about the other family members. You stick by her and help her along.

MDC, I don't remember putting any Brats on top of the refrigerator? Refresh my memory....

Fungirl, that is funny about telling Kyle that drinking can make men cry. That might just work, for now anyway! ha

Well, I broke down and rented Madea's Family Reunion and I have to admit that Me-They was right. It was very good. I laughed and cried, and smiled through it. I especially liked the part when Lisa threw the hot grits on Carlos and proceeded to beat him with the iron skillet....

Better go the kids tucked in for the night. Have a wonderful evening,

BooOctober 22, 2006 - Msg 46552:
I can see where your situation can be difficult, Boo. I know what you mean, my mother was as close to some of my dad's sisters as she was to her own. Guess you're just going to have to tell them that you're there for them, for all of them, and of course that means that you can't take sides. You can help them in every way that you can, except that one. Tell them you love them all, and just can't get involved in factions. It's hard, but as you said, it's what you're going to have to do. --RomeenaOctober 22, 2006 - Msg 46553:
Hi Porch, Thought I'd just stop by and rock a spell. I've had too busy a weekend--don't even feel like I've had a weekend at all. Busy, busy. I need someone to put together a band concert on the bandstand under the stars so I can relax.
Charlotte TuckerOctober 22, 2006 - Msg 46554:
I know what you mean, Charlotte. Sometimes I like seeing Monday come around so I can get back to the routine. Weekends can be so chaotic with everyone here, plus visitors and the kid's friends.

Yes, Ro, we are a close family and they have never treated me other than like a blood relative. I am close to them, but more so to the older sister Linda who is 4 years older than Bruce. She is the one who had the lymph cancer 2 years ago that we prayed for. She has a very "blonde" personality and laughs all the time...lots of fun, but she tries to control things and gets really pushy with her family sometimes. I feel very close to my mother in law and her husband Don. I don't know what I'll do when something happens to them. Don is just a wonderful Christian man and is so good to my mother in law. When he married into the family 4 years ago, we just didn't know what an incredible blessing he would be. Mom-in-law had been involved with a vile man and we had been praying that God would do something and send her a godly husband (I think some you were praying for her too at that time). She was not doing well on her own after the death of her husband. She was seeking love in other men that weren't good for her. God answered our prayers in such a wonderful way and she is very happy now, except for suffering over what her daughters are going through. I know all families have problems but Bruce's family has alot of love in it and I hate to see them pull apart. Seems like after his Dad dies, they all stopped caring so much.

BooOctober 23, 2006 - Msg 46555:
Morning all..Skippy have ya been to Romeenas web site to see all our pics?....yall need to get her pics to post ..hey hm,boo,Rev,TOM,possun...and all...hey yall can I have that last slice of ham>,,,,SPOTOctober 23, 2006 - Msg 46556:
Morning porchesters, It is Monday again!! Cloudy and cold on my end of the porch today. Hope breakfast is ready SPOT, cause I sure am hungry!
My daugther and I traveled to Nashville (about 4 1/2 to 5 hours away from here) this week end along with one of her friends and her friends Mom to see a concert. We had a big time and got there and back safely. We hae not done a lot of
Mom/daugthers stuff like this so we had a grand time. I am kinda tired today though!! Hope everyone is doing okay. Prayers to all. Big MaudeOctober 23, 2006 - Msg 46557:
Thanks for all your thoughts guys!

Have a nice week, and keep healthy!

Deputy Warren FergusonOctober 23, 2006 - Msg 46558:
Good morning everyone. It' chilly here, but not downright cold. That'll come in a few days I hear. I had to deal with a trojan that snuck into my e-mail this morning. My antivirus software couldn't do anything with it. I tell you, the people that think these things up ought to just act like somebody.

So we lost a day and a half, huh? Funny, that hasn't happened to me since the college days. Have fun, FLOYD. Say hello to Julie, Isaac, Gopher, and Doc.

BOO: Glad you enjoyed the movie. About your family concerns, buy, that's a tough one. From what you have related, it seems that your hubby's family just can't grow up and get along like the caring adults they probably are inside. While you obviously care about thema great deal, I don't think it's a good idea to enable their childish behavior. I agree with ROMEENA's advice that you need to sit on the sidelines. They need to learn to get along and as long as they have you to make everything okay, they'll take that way out and never grow up. Think of it as tough love. They may be upset with you for awhile, but if you handle them the way you handle us here on the porch, they'll have to know that you are doing it out of love. And they'll come around eventually. Anyway, that's my five-cents worth. Got change for a quarter? I'm leaving a tip later at the diner.

Good to hear from you, DWF. We had the same problem when I was growing up--lots of time on our hands and nothing to do. Parents can't be naive, ansd they have to stay involved. Yes, we can go overboard with micromanaging our kids' lives, but no children have died from their parents smothering them. The same can't be said for drugs and alcohol. ROMEENA is right (again), though, ultimately kids have to amke their own choices. The best we can do is the best we can do. And that involves a lot of praying, loving, talking, prying, and staying involved. No rest for the weary for at least eighteen years.

The family went to the pumpkin patch yesterday after church. Nora and Chad had a great time. We took a hayride and did a corn maze, too. It was great fun. The kids picked out their pumpkins out in the field, and the one that Chad picked was half-ripe, pock-marked and slightly soft on one side, but he "loved it." It'll probably be rotting in a week and there's no chance of it lasting until Thanksgiving. Oh, well, for $2 he's happy. He sat holding it all morning.

My soapbox moment this morning is our national debt. I heard on the radio this morning that our biggest debtor is China, and that our government owes $40 billion to Mexico! And, the U.S. debt accounts for a full 65% of all the national debt on the planet. How in the world can we justify owing this kind of money to countries like China? Is this in our national interest? Now, if we were borrowing this kind of mobney to feed people and put clothes on their backs it would be one thing. But we aren't; we're borrowing money to support a lifestyle that makes us fat and lazy. The things we complain about; I know I get frustrated if my electricity goes off during a storm and it takes a few hours to get it back on, or the grocery store is out of the kind of soda I want. It's pathetic. As crazy as it sounds, maybe what we need is to let our economy come crashing down and start over living within our means. The only thing that keeps me from wishing something like that is that I know that so many people who are suffering now will suffer worse while somebody gets rich ripping them off. Gee, I'm kind of cynical today. I'll snap out of it.

Do as SPOT says and send ROMEENA your pics! Well, back to work. Break's over!